Sublime Clam Chowder

Directions

1. 1
   In a heavy bottomed pot (Dutch oven), melt the bacon fat and 1-2 T. of butter.
2. 2
   Add the onions and saute them with the lid on, stirring occasionally.
3. 3
   When they're fragrant, add the potatoes and saute together for a few minutes with the lid on, tossing occasionally.
4. 4
   When the potatoes start to sear or brown, add the clam juice and the milk.
5. 5
   Stir in the liquids, and then add the celery seed, cracked pepper, sage, rosemary, bay and a little salt (add in stages to avoid making it over salty.
6. 6
   When the soup starts to simmer, stir it, and taste it.
7. 7
   Add more salt and butter if it's necessary.
8. 8
   After 4 minutes, add the celery.
9. 9
   Let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
10. 10
    If you are making the soup ahead, go ahead and turn it off, and put the lid on it (if you put the clams in and then try to reheat it, they'll get all gross and rubbery).
11. 11
    If you're serving immediately, rinse the clams and then add them to the soup.
12. 12
    Stir them in, and half cap the pot until it starts to simmer.
13. 13
    Stir when it simmers and serve when the clams open up (approximately 3 minutes).