Lighter Clam Chowder - Got Milk

Ingredients

• 8 slices – reduced-sodium bacon , chopped
• 1 – medium onion , chopped
• 4 stalks – celery , chopped
• 1 teaspoon – dried thyme
• 2 – bay leaves
• 1 1/4 pounds (about 4-5 small) – red potatoes , chopped small
• 1 15-ounce can – clam broth
• 4 cups – reduced-fat milk
• 1/2 cup – all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons – kosher salt
• 1 pound – fresh or frozen and defrosted clam strips , chopped, juices reserved
• 3 – scallions , thinly sliced
• Freshly ground pepper , to taste
• Oyster crackers (optional)