3 sprigs fresh thyme, plus 1 more sprig
3 sprigs fresh parsley
2 garlic cloves
15 to 20 whole black peppercorns
2 cups white wine
1 cup water
1 1/2 pounds littleneck clams, cleaned
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed
2 ounces smoked bacon, chopped
1 small onion or 1/2 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 inner stalks celery, diced
1 small carrot, diced
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 russet potato, peeled and diced
1 cup milk
1 lemon, juiced
Pinch cayenne
1/3 cup heavy cream
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Croutons, recipe follows, for garnish
Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish, optional
1 loaf sourdough bread, crusts removed, cubed
Garlic and Chili Oil, recipe follows
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley leaves
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 whole head garlic (about 2 1/2 ounces, cloves separated and peeled)
2 cups extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes