Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup Recipe

lbs beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1 inch pieces

lbs potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2 inch pieces ((Yukon gold or russets are preferred))

carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch pieces

medium yellow or sweet onion, peeled and diced

ribs celery, sliced in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/2-1 inch pieces

garlic, minced

tomato paste

better than bouillon beef base ((optional but recommended))

Worcestershire sauce

kosher salt

black pepper

sprigs fresh thyme

bay leaves

beef broth or stock

pearl barley