I use stewing beef plus carrots, celery, parsnips, onion and for liquid half stock (I just use and oxo cube) and half tinned chopped tomatoes. It makes it richer. Red wine or guinness would be great. I think using all water is traditional but not as nice. Also a bit of dried oregano. Coat the beef in flour before you brown. I also make it a day ahead and warm up. I cook on gas 3 for ages, warms up the kitchen.