MARKET STREET CLAM CHOWDER

1 c Potatoes, diced
1 c Celery, diced
1 c Onion, diced
1 c Green Bell Pepper, diced
1 c Leeks, diced (open layers when washing, assure no sand remains)
3/4 c Clams, chopped
3/4 T Ground Black Pepper
1-1/2 T Salt
3/4 T Whole Thyme
6 Bay Leaves
1 t Tabasco Sauce
3/4 c Sherry [or substitute 1/4 c Apple Cider Vinegar]
2 c Water
3/4 c Clam Juice
3/4 c Melted Butter
1 c Flour
2 quarts Half & Half

ROUX [This roux is a fabulous base for any cream sauce or soup!]
Combine melted butter and flour in oven-proof container
Bake at 325 for 30 minutes

In large saucepan, combine remaining ingredients EXCEPT Half & Half
Simmer until potatoes are thoroughly cooked
Stir in butter/flour roux into chowder and stir until thick. (Mixture will be slightly less thick than cookie dough)
Remove chowder from heat
Stir in Half & Half until blended
Heat to serving temperature, stirring occasionally
Serve immediately

I don't follow exact recipe amounts -- always add more potatoes and onions. I usually saute the onions before adding to other ingredients. This is a great crowd pleaser -- works well as main dish, and I use it regularly for buffet dinners. Enjoy!!

[Thank you Market Street Grill / Gastronomy Restaurants]