Cut beef thigh into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
Use cheaper red wine as it will be boiled down.
The golden ratio for aromatic vegetables is roughly onion 3, carrot 2, celery 1.
If celery is difficult to obtain, onion and carrot alone are fine.
Add cocoa powder for a deeper flavor and subtle roast aroma, reminiscent of French game dishes.
Blueberry jam pairs well with red wine and adds sweetness and complexity.
Add a small amount of miso for umami and to prevent a monotonous flavor.
If the stew becomes too thick, add water to adjust.
Add demi-glace sauce at the end for a richer, more rice-friendly flavor, especially if catering to Japanese tastes, but use sparingly as it has a strong flavor.