Old Spaghetti Factory Original Clam Sauce

Source: Old Spaghetti Factory - San Diego Union Tribune, February 16, 1995

Serving size: 6

3 ounces butter
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
3 stalks celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons flour
2 (6 ounce) cans clams, chopped
1 quart half-and-half
1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
1 teaspoon salt

Combine butter, garlic, onion and celery in a saucepan. Braise over medium-low heat until tender but not brown. Add the flour, and mix to make a roux.

Drain clams, reserving juice.

In a separate saucepan, combine clam juice, half-and-half, thyme and salt. Heat until just below boiling. Add to roux, and cook until sauce thickens. Add clams, stirring gently to mix throughout the sauce.

Serve over noodles.