Step 1

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pot. Pat dry, lightly salt, and then brown the beef (on all sides) over medium-high heat. Once browned, remove beef to a plate.

Step 2

Add more oil to the pot if needed. Add the onions and garlic, and saute for 3-5 minutes, till golden brown.

Step 3

Add the tomato paste. Saute another 2 minutes, till the tomato paste turns a darker, brick red color.

Step 4

Add the whole peeled tomatoes, bay leaves, and 1/2 cup of water. Add the beef back in. Bring to a boil. Then turn heat to low. Put on a lid, and let simmer for an hour.

Step 5

Remove lid, turn heat back to medium-high. Add the celery, carrots, and potatoes. Add more water if needed (you want to be sure all the meat and vegetables are covered). Bring to a boil. Then turn the heat back to low. Put the lid on and simmer for another hour. Season with salt and lots of black pepper.

Step 6

Serve over a big bowl of hot rice ^_^