Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) - Tender Beef in Tomato Sauce - Taste Like Magic

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef chuck, cut into 3 large pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ounces bacon or pancetta, diced (optional)
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup carrot, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (400g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
• 2 bay leaves