New England Clam Chowder - 2/5/05

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New England Clam Chowder

Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes
Ready In: 50 Minutes

Makes: 4 servings

"Bottled clam juice is the secret ingredient for this extra-flavorful chowder. Otherwise, this is a fairly standard chowder recipe with lots of potatoes, bacon, and onions."

Ingredients
4 slices bacon
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup bottled clam juice
1 cup half-and-half
2 (6 ounce) cans minced clams
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions
1. In a large saucepan over medium high heat, fry the bacon until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels, reserving the bacon fat in the pan, crumble and set aside.

2. In the same saucepan with the bacon fat, saute the onion and potatoes for 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle with the flour and stir well to coat.

3. Pour in the clam juice, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

4. Add the half-and-half and minced clams and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, whisk in the heavy cream, if desired. Allow to heat through, about 5 minutes. Garnish with the parsley. (Note: Do not boil if adding cream.)

Source: AllRecipes.com