Summer Shrimp and Corn Chowder | Seasoned Cooking

Ingredients

• 4 slices smoked bacon -- cut into one-inch pieces
• 2 cups corn kernels -- frozen will do, but fresh is best
• 1 onion -- diced
• 2 stalks celery -- diced
• 1/2 red pepper -- diced
• 2 cloves garlic -- chopped
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 large sweet potato -- peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in a little cold water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 lb. raw shrimp -- peeled and deveined
• Salt, pepper, and cayenne (or chili oil) to taste