New England Clam Chowder

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups half-and-half
• Chopped fresh chives, for topping (optional)
• 30 littleneck clams (about 3 pounds), scrubbed
• 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes