Coat meat with flour; set excess flour aside. In large skillet or slow-cooking pot with browning unit, heat oil. Brown meat on all sides. In slow-cooking pot, combine browned beef, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, bouillon, pepper, salt, sugar, and vegetables. Pour water over all. cover and cook on low 8 to 10 hours. Turn control on high. Thicken with flour left over from coating (about 1/4 cup) dissolved in a small amount of water. Add okra if desired. Cover and cook on high 10 to 15  minutes or until slightly thickened.  Serves 7