Pier 55 Clam Chowder

Ingredients

• 3 thick strips applewood bacon, coarsely chopped
• ½ cup finely chopped onion (¼-inch dice)
• ½ cup finely chopped celery (¼-inch dice)
• ½ cup finely chopped red potatoes (¼-inch dice)
• 1 (6½-ounce) Manila clams meat
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half, warmed
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• Optional Chives