Rock And Roll Bbq Clam Chowder

Total Time: 1 hr Preparation Time: 35 mins Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients

• Servings: 8
• 1/2 lb bacon
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped (1 large)
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped (4 ribs)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 (6 1/2 ounce) cans minced clams, and the juice
• 2 lbs red potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 8 ounces bottled clam juice
• 3 cups half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne

Recipe

• 1 fry bacon. when it's done put it on some paper towels to drain. pour the dripping into a large stock pot.
• 2 add butter to the stock pot and heat over medium until butter is melted.
• 3 add the onions, celery, and garlic to the pot. cook on medium-high heat until the vegetables are translucent and soft.
• 4 slowly add flour while continually stirring. you are making a roux. don't just dump the flour in! it is very important to slowly whisk/stir in the flour. once all of the flour has been added continue to cook and stir for 5 minutes.
• 5 add chopped clams and their juices, diced potatoes, clam juice, spices, and the half and half. bring to a boil. when it boils immediately reduce to a simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. stir often. you can add some whole clams at this point too.
• 6 check the potatoes. when they are done -- soup's on!
• 7 garnish and serve. bread bowls are the best for this soup but regular bowls work fine. cheese or fresh herbs make a great garnish. fresh cracked pepper and hot sauce are a popular and tasty topper too.