
Return the skillet to heat over medium and add flour to skillet. Use a whisk to stir and cook flour while scraping the bottom of the pan. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Add the beer and cook while whisking constantly until mixture is smooth and bring to a simmer, about 8 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in soy sauce. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Top with bay leaves and thyme. Cover and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours.*