Crock Pot Pepper Steak

1 1/2 pounds boneless beef round steak
2 medium onion, cut into 1/4 inch slices
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp finely chopped ginger root or 1/4 tsp ground ginger
1 c. beef broth
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 c. cold water
2 bell peppers, cut into 3/4 inch strips
3 tomatoes, cut into eighths
6 cups cooked, hot rice

Remove fat from beef, and portion beef into 6 pieces. Spray large skillet with cooking spray, over medium high heat. Cook beef in the skillet, about 8 minutes on each side, until browned on each side. In a 3-4 quart slow cooker, place beef, onions, garlic and ginger root. Pour beef broth and soy sauce over the meat. Cover, and cook on low for 7-9 hours or until beef is tender. In a small bowl, mix together water, and cornstarch. Gradually add this to the beef mixture, along with the bell peppers. Increase heat to high, cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in tomatoes, cover and let cook for 3 minutes. Serve over hot cooked rice.