Crock Pot Beef Stew

1 1/2 lbs. stew beef, cut from chuck

2 T. oil

3 carrots chopped in 1 inch pieces

1 C. chopped onion

1 C. chopped celery

2 14 oz. cans chopped tomatoes

1 14 oz. can of water

1/2 C. barley

2 T. sugar

1 t. salt

3 potatoes cut into chunks

Brown beef in the oil. Set aside. Add carrots, onion, celery and potato and cook until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes.

Add the vegetables to the slow cooker. Place meat on top. Mix the tomatoes with the water, barley, sugar, salt and pepper. Pour over the meat and vegetables. Do not stir. Cover and cook on Low for 7 - 8 hours.