Chop all the vegetables and place in the bottom of a large slow cooker. Add the beef to top
Combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried herbs, and salt. Pour over the stew mixture
Add the bay leaves
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, until beef is tender
To freeze: Assemble all the ingredients (including raw beef) in a large freezer bag or container. Freeze. When ready to make, thaw all the ingredients and pour into a slow cooker for 6-8 hours. Or make beforehand and freeze any leftovers once fully cooled