Combine flour and seasonings in a plastic bag. Trim and discard all visible fat from the beef. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes; lightly toss in seasoned flour: reserve excess flour. Pour oil into a 6-cup oven-proof casserole dish; stir in floured meat. Bake, uncovered, at 450°F. for 30 minutes, stirring once. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Combine water, soup mix, reserved flour, and bay leaf; pour over meat. Bake, covered, for 1 hour; stirring once. Add potatoes, onions, carrots, mushrooms and an additional 1/4 cup water if needed. Bake, covered, for about another 45 minutes or until the meat and vegetables are tender. Discard the bay leaf. Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 2 1/4 hours