Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms until softened (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste until evenly coated.
Add beef back into the pot, along with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 1½–2 hours until beef is tender and sauce thickens.
(Optional) Mix flour or cornstarch with a little water and stir in to thicken further if needed.
5. Serve
Remove bay leaves and serve over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice for a cozy, gourmet-style meal.
