Solomons Island Clam Chowder

Ingredients

• 1 (12 oz.) can fresh shucked chowder size hard clams (or 12 chowder size hard clams in shell)
• 3 lg. Potatoes
• 2 med. Onions
• 3 carrots
• 2 green peppers
• 3 strips bacon
• Clam liquid plus water to equal 2 cups
• 1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Drain clams, reserving liquid. Finely chop clams; strain liquid if necessary. (Shuck and chop clams, if in shell; drain and reserve liquid). Finely chop potatoes, onions, carrots, green peppers and bacon. Put in 4 quart pot, add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 40 minutes. Add clams and clam liquid; simmer 15 minutes more. Add butter, salt, and pepper.