Preheat oven, combine beef and flavorings: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a Dutch oven (5-quart) with a tight-fitting lid, combine beef, tomato paste, vinegar, and flour; season with salt and pepper.
Add vegetables: Add onions, potatoes, carrots, garlic, bay leaves, and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil.
Transfer to oven and cook: Cover, transfer to oven, and cook until meat is fork-tender, 2 to 2 ½ hours.
Remove bay leaves and serve: Remove bay leaves and, if desired, season with salt and pepper before serving.
