SWEET AND SOUR BEEF

1 1/2 to 2 lbs. lean beef, cut into cubes
1 -16 oz. can diced tomatoes
1/3 c. brown sugar, packed
1/4 c. vinegar
1/2 c. onion, finely chopped
1 green pepper, cut into strips
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Melt butter in a large, nonstick skillet. Add beef, browning on all sides. Transfer meat to a oven-safe dish. In a medium bowl, add tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, onion, bay leaf, and salt. Stir to mix well. Pour on top of the beef, cover, and place in the oven. Cook for 1 1/2 hours. Remove dish, add the green pepper, and put back in the oven. Continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pepper is crisp-tender. Remove bay leaf, and serve immediately.