Add water to near the top of the fry pan, it does not need to cover the meat. Cover meat with chopped onion, half on top and half on sides in water. Chances are you will need at least one full onion, maybe one and a half for a 3 to 4 pound piece of meat. You can vary the amount of onion to your own taste.
Before adding bay leaves, break in a couple of places to help release oils. Bay leaves will be removed before serving, so for easier removal break in a manner so that the vein of the leaf remains intact.
Simmer with pan covered until done, there is no need to turn meat over. Watch to make sure pan does not go dry. Allow enough water to evaporate to make room for adding vegetables.
When meat is done it will be very tender and nearly ready to fall apart. This should take approximately 3 hours. Time will vary according to size and thickness of meat.