1/4 lb. salt pork, diced in cubes or 8 slices bacon, cut into pieces
1 lg. diced onion
1/2 c. thinly sliced celery (optional)
3 c. water
1 c. bottled clam juice
2 1/2 c. diced potatoes
2 1/2 c. minced canned clams
2 tbsp. butter
1 qt. warm milk or half & half
1/2 c. instant mashed potatoes to thicken
Salt and pepper to taste

In a heavy saucepan, saute onions, celery (if desired) and salt pork, until onions are tender, add water, clams, clam juice and potatoes. Cook for 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender. Lower heat and add butter and warm milk, stir well, add instant mashed potatoes for a thicker chowder. Do NOT boil.