Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder

Name: Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon, chopped; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 carrots, peeled, quartered, and sliced; 1/2 cup sliced celery; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes; 16 ounces (2 cups) clam juice; 2 cups chicken broth; 28 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained; 10 ounces whole baby clams, drained; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, plus more for garnish; Optional: oyster crackers and additional cooked bacon for serving