In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil and brown the pork ribs well on both sides. Add the ribs to the pot with the beans and bay leaf. Do not wash the skillet. Bring the pot to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, until the beans and ribs are tender.

When the beans and ribs are almost cooked, heat the skillet and sauté the onion and garlic. Add the carrot, celery, cumin, basil, and salt to the onion. Cook the vegetables for about 4 minutes, then add them to the pot with the beans and ribs.

Add the salt, potato, sweet potato, and cabbage to the beans. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes and sweet potato are cooked. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.