The Best Damn Clam Chowder Ever - cooking recipe

Ingredients

5 - 6 1/2 ounces chopped clams, liquid reserved
24 ounces bottled clam juice
4 ounces diced prosciutto (or chopped bacon)
1 large yellow onion
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 medium red potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch dice
1 large bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves
salt
white pepper, to taste

Preparation

In a large soup pot, brown prosciutto, or bacon over medium-low heat until crisp.
Add the onion and cook until softened.
Add the flour and stir until lightly colored, about a minute.
Slowly whisk in the clam broth, reserved clam liquid, potatoes, bay leaf and thyme. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the clams, cream, fresh parsley, salt and white pepper.
Bring to a simmer and serve immediately.
(You may substitute any type of shellfish, or even fish for the clams in this recipe.).