I used 3 cans clams (which had 1.5 cups clam juice), 1 tsp dried thyme, lowfat milk. Sauteed vegetables in 2 Tbsp butter, which was plenty. Clam juice reduced while cooking, so I added an extra cup of water, but even so, the chowder was super thick. Next time I'd try 4 Tbsp butter & flour for the roux, or maybe 6, but not 8. Overall, it was tasty.