Manhattan-style clam chowder

8 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
4ouncesBacon ; cut small pieces
1cupOnion ; minced
2teaspoonsParsley ; fresh flat leaf finely chopped
½Bay leaf
2cupsCelery ; minced
1cupGreen pepper ; minced
3cupsMinced clams ; 16 oz cans
16ouncesClam juice ; bottled
28ouncesItalian-style tomatoes drain (saving liquid) and chop
4cupsPotatoes ; peel/dice
2teaspoonsButter water
½teaspoonBlack pepper ; freshly groun salt to taste parsley, fresh ; chopped for garnish

Directions

In a heavy pot cook bacon with onion, parsley, and black pepper for about 5 minutes. Add the ½ bay leaf, minced celery, and minced green pepper; cook for 15 minutes. Add juice from minced clams, 1 eight-ounce bottle of clam juice, reserved liquid from tomatoes, diced potatoes and water; simmer for 25 minutes longer. Add the clams, tomatoes and second eight-ounce bottle of clam juice; correct seasoning. Add butter; sprinkle top with parsley. Serve with crusty garlic bread or oyster crackers.