Step 1

In a large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Discard drippings, reserving 2 tablespoons in pan.

Step 2

Add carrots and onion to drippings; cook and stir over medium-high heat until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.

Step 3

Stir in water, sweet potatoes, bay leaves, curry, salt, cinnamon, paprika and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, 10-15 minutes. Discard bay leaves. Stir in cream and sour cream just until blended. Cool.

Step 4

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine mint, oil, sugar, salt, pepper flakes and pepper. Let stand 5-10 minutes.

Step 5

Process bisque in batches in a blender until smooth; return all to the pan. Heat through (do not boil). Ladle bisque into bowls; drizzle with minted chili oil.