Fabulous Beef Stew (Crock Pot) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs stewing beef, lean, cut in 1-inch cubes (I use a roast instead)
1 (1 1/4 ounce) packet Lipton Beef and Onion Soup mix
2 beef bouillon cubes
4 medium potatoes, cubed
3 carrots, sliced
1 stalk celery, sliced (Not just 1 rib, but the whole stalk)
1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes, with juice
1 garlic clove, crushed (I use the minced garlic in a jar)
salt and pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water

Preparation

Put all ingredients, except for cornstarch and water, in a slow cooker on low heat for 8 to 10 hours.
Taste and adjust seasonings.
Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water (if desired).
Turn heat to high and stir until thickened.