Hatteras Style Clam Chowder

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 5 stalks celery, sliced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 cups peeled, cubed white potatoes
• 2 cans (16 ounce size) minced clams, with juice
• 3 quarts clam juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 slices crisp cooked bacon, crumbled

Preparation:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook onion, celery and carrots in oil until they begin to soften.
   
2. Stir in potatoes, clams, clam juice, thyme, pepper and bacon.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Notes: