RED LOBSTER Clam Chowder

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup diced onion

1/2 cup diced celery

1/2 cup diced leeks

1/4 teaspoon chopped garlic

2 tablespoons flour

1 quart milk

1 cup clams in juice

1 cup diced potatoes

1 tablespoon salt

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

1 teaspoon dry thyme

1/2 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

In a soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, leeks and garlic. Saute for 3 minutes, mixing often.Remove from heat and add flour, mixing well.Add milk and whisk vigorously.Drain clams and add juice to soup.Slowly bring to a boil, mixing often. Reduce heat to a simmer.Add potatoes and seasonings; simmer 10 minutes.Add clams and simmer 5-8 minutes.Finish with heavy cream. Serve.