Creamy Hearty Clam Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Clams and Broth

01 - Chopped clams in clam juice (3 cans, 6.5 ounces each)
02 - Bottled clam juice (8 ounces)
03 - Chicken broth (2 cups)

→ Meats and Base

04 - Thick-cut bacon (6 strips, chopped)
05 - Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon)

→ Vegetables

06 - Yellow onion (1 medium, chopped)
07 - Celery ribs (2, finely chopped)
08 - Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced)
09 - Yukon gold potatoes (3 medium, about 1 1/4 pounds, peeled and diced)

→ Seasonings

10 - All-purpose flour (1/3 cup)
11 - Dried parsley (1/2 teaspoon)
12 - Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon)
13 - Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon)
14 - Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
15 - Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon)

→ Finishing

16 - Heavy cream (1 cup)
17 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Drain canned clam juice into a measuring cup. Add bottled clam juice to total 2 1/2 cups. Set aside.
02 - In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
03 - Add butter to the bacon grease. Once melted, add onions and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
04 - Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Add chicken broth, clam juice, potatoes, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
05 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 12-13 minutes.
06 - Add heavy cream, chopped clams, and most of the bacon (reserving some for garnish). Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
07 - Garnish with remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Serve warm, preferably with oyster crackers.

# Notes:

01 - Best served with oyster crackers
02 - Ideal for cold winter days
03 - Can be stored in refrigerator for 2-3 days