i always have this at christmas and as often as i can. here is my super simple recipe and its great. when i learn how to gather fresh clam and know where to go i will use fresh, till then can will have to do. 2 cans minced clam; 2 carrots shredded; 2 medium onion chopped; 2-3 stalks celery chopped; 6-8(+/-) potatoes peeled and cubed; 1 stick butter; 1 cup flour; 1 quart half and half. old bay seasoning(2 teaspoon+/-) and tobasco(couple of dashes). put all vegetables in a good size pot and just cover veg. with water. salt and pepper to taste but less salt if you use old bay. open clams and pour in juice but hold clams till the end. bring to boil. take the stick of butter and melt over medium heat. once melted sift in flour and blend till flour is wet with butter. add half and half full guart and start wisking non stop. be careful with heat. as it heats it will thicken. pour this roux into boiling vegetables, reduce heat and stir gently. add clams and simmer about 20 min. have old bay, paprika, cajun spice and plenty of crackers, crusty bread and your favorite beverage. great for the cold nights.