This is always a busy time of year for us. We are looking forward to spring. Getting ready for the long winter months. We also get invited to a few very casual get-togethers. There is one standing request every year for me to make Manhatten Clam Chowder Soup. It is so easy to make. Once it is made I leave it in my Ninja Crock Pot on Buffet setting to keep it hot. The soup is usually gone before the end of the night.

Recipe:

• 3 Can canned chopped clams
• 1 can of crushed tomato ( I use the ones I caned from my garden but store bought is ok too)
• 2 stalks celery chopped
• 2 lrg. carrots chopped
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 small potatoes cubed
• 2 to 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 TBS lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 TBS butter
• water

In your favorite soup pot. ( I have several )  melt the butter  then add in celery, carrots and onion, Simmer until translucent and tender . Add  the clams but reserve the juice for another step. Add garlic , thyme, lemon and lemon juice. the add crushed tomato and potatoes. the add water to the clam juice to make 2 cups total. and add it to the soup pot. Bring to a boil until all the vegetables are cook to tender. Serve hot. We like to add a dash of chipolte hot sauce