Dairy-Free Chowder

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup oil, onion, celery, and bacon. Cook and stir until bacon fat renders and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add potatoes and clam juice. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Add clams and cook for 10 minutes more. Meanwhile, combine 1/4 cup oil and flour in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Stir until paste-like and light golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually whisk in almond milk; cook and stir until mixture becomes a thick slurry, 6 to 7 minutes more. Stir slurry into the chowder to thicken it. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.