Lighter New England Clam Chowder

Bahan-bahan (6 porsi)

• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, ends trimmed and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (8 ounce) bottle clam juice
• 4 cups plain milk (I use 2% milk)
• 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold or red potatoes, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 (7-ounce) cans minced clams (not drained, keep the juice)
• sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
• optional garnish: chopped fresh chives or green onions, dash of hot sauce