Crockpot Vegetarian Stew

1 medium eggplant, peeled -- cut in 1/2" cubes
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cups sliced carrot
15 ounces garbanzo beans, canned -- drained
8 ounces red kidney beans, canned -- rinsed and drained
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup sliced celery
3 cloves garlic -- minced
3 cups Imagine brand soy free chicken broth
6 ounce can tomato paste
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 bay leaf

1. In a 3 1/2, 4 or 5-quart crockpot, combine eggplant, tomatoes, carrots, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, onion, celery and garlic.

2. Combine vegetable broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper and bay leaf. Pour over vegetables.

3. Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 7 to 8 hours or on high-heat setting for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Discard bay leaf. Makes 6 servings.