Manhattan Chickpea Chowder

Name: Manhattan Chickpea Chowder
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 vidalia onion, (diced); 2 celery ribs, (diced); 2 medium carrots, (diced); 1 green bell pepper, (diced); 3 garlic cloves, (minced); 5-6 cups vegetable broth; 1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 bay leaf; 1 14 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 small (1/2 pound) russet potato, (diced); 1-2 tablespoons white miso paste, (optional, but see my note); 1-2 tablespoons cayenne pepper hot sauce; Salt and pepper to taste