New England Clam Chowder

Step 1
Place diced bacon in a large stockpot over medium-high heat; cook and stir until almost crisp. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 2
Stir in potatoes and add water; season with salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 3
Pour in half-and-half and add butter. Drain clams, reserving clam liquid; stir clams and 1/2 of the clam liquid into the soup. Cook until heated through, without boiling, about 5 minutes.