In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced sweet potatoes and corn kernels to the pot. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to start softening.
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the flavors.
Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the chowder until you achieve your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of it, leaving some sweet potato and corn whole.
Stir in the coconut milk, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. Allow it to heat just until warmed through but do not boil.
Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley. Enjoy your creamy, comforting chowder with a slice of crusty bread!
Notes
For a richer flavor, substitute coconut milk with heavy cream.