Clam Chowder

To be honest, I am not sure I ever had clam chowder until I was married and tried my mother-in-laws. At first I was hesitant about trying it. I wasn't quite sure about the whole clam thing. However, I loved it! She uses minced clams, which are cut up pretty fine so you don't get big chunks of this chewy meat. This has become one of our family favorites (my kids even love it!)

1 Cup Onions, Finely Chopped
1 Cup Celery, Finely Chopped
2 Cups Potatoes, Finely Diced
2 Cans (6.5 oz each) Minced Clams and Juice
3/4 Cup Butter
3/4 Cup Flour
1 Quart Half and Half Cream
1 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
Dash of Pepper

Drain juice from clams and pour over vegetables in a small saucepan. Add enough water to barely cover and simmer over medium heat, covered until almost tender. Melt butter, add flour and blend in a large pan. Cook stirring constantly. Add cream and cook. Stir with wire whip until smooth and thick. Add undrained vegetables and clams. Heat through. Season to taste.