Manhattan Clam Chowder

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 each onion, red pepper and green pepper, chopped
• 1 each bay leaf and clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp (5 mL) dried thyme leaves
• 1/2 lb (250 g) Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cans (142 g each) Clover Leaf Whole Baby Clams
• 1 can (28 oz) (796 mL) diced tomatoes with juices
• 3 cups (750 mL) tomato juice
• 1 bottle (240 mL) Clover Leaf Clam Juice
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) dry white wine or additional tomato juice
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) each salt and pepper
• Hot sauce (optional)
• parsley, garnish