In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, crushed peppercorns, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
For a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
You can also add vegetables like carrots or potatoes during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.