New England Clam Chowder

Ingredients

• 3 dozen fresh littleneck clams, scrubbed or 3 cans chopped clams and juices
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme or ¼ tsp. ground
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 1 dash Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 fresh chives, chopped for topping