Season the beef with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides.
Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in beef broth and scrape up browned bits.
Return the beef to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Season with thyme and bay leaf, then bring to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.