Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew: A Simple Comfort Food Classic

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 medium carrots, sliced (about 2 cups)
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the beef, optional)