New England Clam Chowder

INGREDIENTS

3 6.5 ounce cans

chopped/minced clams in clam juice*

bottle clam juice*

thick center-cut bacon strips, chopped

1 tbsp

butter

stalks celery, finely chopped

large onion, chopped

1 1/4 lb

russet potatoes (peeled and diced into 1/4-1/2” cubes)

garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp

red pepper flakes (optional)

1/3 cup

all-purpose flour

2 cups

low sodium chicken broth

2 tsp

chicken bouillon ((Hold if using fresh clams))

bay leaves

1/2 tsp

EACH dried parsley, dried oregano, salt ((salt to taste if using fresh clams))

1/4 tsp

EACH dried thyme, pepper

1 cup

heavy cream

Oyster crackers

fresh parsley

bacon

cheese