Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. canola oil
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 sprig fresh thyme, minced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 5 cups water or vegetable stock
• 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup chopped cooked chicken (optional)
• 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. cayenne or ground red pepper
• 2 tbsp. minced scallions