Ivar'S Clam Chowder

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, drain the juice from the clams; set the clams aside.

2. 2

   Combine clam juice with the onions, celery and potatoes.

3. 3

   Add enough water to barely cover and simmer, covered, over medium heat until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.

4. 4

   If you want bacon, cook the bacon in the large sauce pan. When the bacon is cooked, take it out of the pan and add the butter to the bacon grease. If you choose not to add bacon, you can skip this step.

5. 5

   In a large saucepan, melt the butter.

6. 6

   Add flour and stir in to the butter.

7. 7

   Slowly whisk in the warm half-and-half.

8. 8

   Cook and whisk until smooth and thick, about 5 minutes.

9. 9

   Add the vegetables with their cooking liquid, clams, salt, pepper and sugar to the pan. Chop the cooked bacon and add it to the large sauce pan (if you are adding bacon).

10. 10

    Stir well and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.