Fresh Mexican chorizo resembles hot Italian sausage, but uses a chile paste made from vinegar and dried chiles for that deep, spicy, peppery flavor. The chiles are responsible for the intense red color that chorizo is known for. This soup is mentioned in my novel, The Essence of Shade, and is one of the soups featured on the menu at Shady Lane's Bakery & Cafe. It's a meal in itself.