Preheat oven to 275 F. Use a heavy casserole, Dutch oven, or pot with a tight-fitting lid. Place the meat in the pot with the onion, bay leaf, allspice and water. Sprinkle with salt and sugar
Use a smaller amount first, and add to taste later on after it's done cooking. Cover tightly, place the casserole in the oven and let cook for 5 hours, stirring once. You should not need anymore water, but if the meet seems to be drying out, add some more. The meat should basically cook in its own juices. Use a fork to try to shred the meat. If it shreds easily, it's done cooking, if not, try cooking another 15 minutes and check againHave a taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Serve with boiled potatoes, fresh rye bread and a salad, if desired