Emeril's Chowder of Love

8 ounces bacon, cut in ½ inch pieces 1 cup chopped leeks (about 1 pound) 1 cup chopped yellow onion ½ cup chopped celery 1 carrot, peeled and diced 3 bay leaves 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme ½ cup flour 1 pound white potatoes, peeled and diced 4 cups clam juice 2 cups heavy cream 2 pounds little neck clams, about 24 pieces 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley Salt and pepper

In a heavy stock pot, over medium-high heat, render the bacon, until crispy, about 8 minutes. Stir in the leeks, onions, celery, and carrots. Saute for about 2 minutes or until the vegetables start to wilt. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper. Add the bay leaves and thyme. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Add the potatoes. Stir in the clam juice. Bring the liquid up to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Simmer the mixture until the potatoes are fork tender, about 12 minutes. Add the cream and bring up to simmer. Add the clams and simmer for 6 minutes. Stir in the parsley. Season with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into shallow bowls and serve.