Step 1

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and bay leaf and cook for one more minute.

Step 2

Add the chopped sweet potatoes and vegetable broth. Season with smoked paprika, coriander, thyme, salt, and pepper. Partially cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.

Step 3

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup in the pot until smooth. You can also carefully transfer the soup to a blender and puree. You will need to do it in two batches, so the blender isn’t too full and make sure you let the soup cool for a few minutes so it isn't too hot.

Step 4

Stir in the coconut milk. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. Ladle into bowls and serve warm. You can garnish the soup with a drizzle of coconut milk, a dash of smoked paprika, and chopped fresh parsley, If desired.