Hearty Vegetable Soup with Bacon

from Teresa Bertolio

9 large red potatoes or 15 small red potatoes, chopped
1/2 large sweet bell pepper, chopped
1/2 large sweet onion, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped bacon or bacon bits
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon beef base or 2 cubes beef bouillon
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped tomatoes (optional)

Place all ingredients into slow cooker. Cover with water. Cook on high 4-5 hours or on low 6-8 hours. Enjoy with rolls or crackers!