-coarse salt -fresh ground black pepper Tear the chilies in strips and pour two cups boiling water over them. Let soak for 30 minutes. Drain, reserving the liquid, and set aside. Heat the oil in a heavy casserole and brown the beef cubes. Add the chilie soaking liquid and bring to a boil. Add the bay leaves, turn down the heat and let simmer for an hour. Meanwhile, puree the rest of the ingredients, including the chilies, with a half cup of water, or more if needed, in a blender or processor. Add the puree to the meat and let simmer for 30 minutes more, adding water as necessary.