New England Style Clam Chowder

2 quarts canned clams with juice, *see note
1 1/2 quarts water or fish stock, approx.
1 1/4 pounds potato, small dice
8 ounces salt pork, small dice
1 pound onion, small dice
8 ounces celery, small dice
4 ounces flour
1 quart milk
8 ounces heavy cream
salt and pepper, to taste
tabasco sauce, to taste
worcestershire sauce, to taste
fresh thyme, to taste
Servings: 16
1. Drain the clams, reserving both the clams and their liquid. Add enough water or stock so that the total liquid equals 2 quarts (2 liters).

2. Simmer the potatoes in the clam liquid until nearly cooked through. Strain and reserve the potatoes and the liquid.

3. Render the salt pork without browning it. Add the onions and celery and sweat until tender.

4. Add the flour and cook to make a blond roux.

5. Add the clam liquid to the roux, whisking away any lumps.

6. Simmer for 30 minutes, skimming as necessary.

7. Bring the milk and cream to a boil and add to the soup.

8. Add the clams and potatoes, and season to taste with salt, pepper, Tabasco, Worcestershire and thyme.

9. Garnish each serving with fresh herbs.

Yield: 3 quarts (3 liters)


Yield: 3 quarts