Clam Chowder with bacon

3 slices bacon , chopped 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 stalks celery , chopped 1/4 yellow onion , finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 bay leaf 3 red[...]

2 quarts water 1 3/4 teaspoons salt 2 lbs red potatoes, cubed 1 large onion , chopped 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine 1 large carrot , diced 2 (6 1/2[...]

1 slice bacon , sliced 1 small onion , chopped fine 1 celery rib , chopped fine 1 tablespoon butter 1 1/2 cups milk 1 (10 ounce) can clams or 2 (6 1/2 ounce)[...]