Step 1

Chop beef into bite size pieces. While beef is still on the cutting board, toss it with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add half of the beef to the very hot skillet and let cook undisturbed for approximately 2 minutes, or until nicely seared on one side; flip beef over and sear the other side then continue to cook while stirring until beef is browned all over but not cooked through. Remove beef to 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Repeat with remaining beef.

Step 3

Add all of the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker and give them a stir.

Step 4

Cook on HIGH for 4-6 hours or on LOW for 8-10 hours or until vegetables are tender and beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Discard bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.