Place beef cubes at the bottom of the crock pot. Layer carrots, then potatoes, placing bay leaf on top.
In a separate bowl, mix remaining ingredients and pour over beef and veggies.
Cover with lid and cook on low 7-10 hours (you could cook it on high for 6-7 hours, but I highly recommend the low and slow method).
Notes
If you do not have beef stew cubes at your grocery store, you can buy your favorite beef roast and cut it into bite-sized pieces. I prefer to double the meat portion of this recipe to make it more hearty.