Trim fat from meat. Cut the meat into ¾-inch pieces. In a 3 ½- or 4-quart slow cooker (see Tip), combine the meat, broth, undrained tomatoes, carrots, onions, barley, the water, bay leaf, thyme, and garlic.
Cover and cook on Low for 9 to 11 hours or on High for 4 ½ to 5 ½ hours. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
