INGREDIENTS
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7lbs medium-size hard-shell clams (topneck or small cherrystone) washed and scrubbed clean. (In a pinch, use 4 cans minced clams and 2 bottles of clam juice)
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2 slices bacon cut into 1/2" pieces
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 carrots, peeled and sliced
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 teaspoons fresh thyme
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2 teaspoons dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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1/4 teaspoon celery seed
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2 bay leaves
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12 oz crushed tomatoes
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1 lb potato cut into 2" chunks
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salt and pepper to taste