Hatteras Clam Chowder: A Heartwarming Outer Banks Classic

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups clam juice or broth
• 1 cup milk or non-dairy milk
• 1 pound fresh clams, cleaned
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Oyster crackers or crusty bread slices (optional)