Spicy Corn Chowder

This is not that spicy- it is tasty- and it was not too spicy for my kids- who are 4, 5 and 6!

1/2 lb bacon, chopped
1 small-medium onion, finely chopped
1 roasted red bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken stock
2 large red potatoes, diced
1 cup milk
16 ounces frozen corn
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 bay leaf
Salt and Pepper to taste

Saute bacon until crisp and browned and the fat is rendered. With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towel and reserve. There should be about 4 tablespoons of bacon grease in pan. Add the onions, garlic and red pepper to pan. Saute until tender and translucent, about 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the flour until thoroughly combined. Cook the flour about 1 minute. Stir in chicken stock, potatoes, bay leaf, milk, corn and cayenne. Simmer about 10-15 minutes, until potatoes are soft. Garnish with crispy bacon.