Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

In a large, deep skillet heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onions and scallions and saute’ until wilted, about 2 minutes. Drain the artichokes well and add to skillet. Season the artichokes lightly with salt and stir in the peperoncino. Sauté the artichokes, stirring continuously, until they are softened and begin to brown around the edges, about 10 minutes. Add zucchini, fava beans, and peas to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring until the zucchini is softened, about 5 minutes. Add a small amount (about 1/4 cup) of the hot stock. Cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid is almost evaporated. Continue adding stock and stirring, until all the stock is added and the vegetables are very tender, about 15 minutes. There should be enough of the liquid to make a sauce that lightly coats the vegetables. Add salt to taste.

Meanwhile, stir the orecchiette into the boiling water. Cover the pot and reheat to boiling, stirring once or twice. When the water returns to a boil uncover the pot. Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 12 minutes.

Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot over low heat. Add the artichoke sauce and the butter, tossing until the butter is melted. If necessary, add enough of the reserved pasta water to make enough of a creamy sauce to coat the pasta. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated cheese. Toss well and transfer to a warmed serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately.

Pour enough vegetable oil into a wide, deep skillet to fill it by 1 1/2 inches. Heat over medium heat until the oil registers 350 degrees on a deep frying thermometer. Line a baking sheet with a double thickness of paper towels and set aside. Meanwhile, in a shallow wide bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt and pepper until thoroughly blended.

When the oil comes to temperature, dredge each skewered square in the flour, being sure to coat all sides lightly but well. Working with half the floured skewers at a time, dip them in the egg mixture to coat on all sides. Don’t soak the bread in the egg, just coat it thoroughly. Let some of the excess egg drip back into the bowl, and gently slip the squares into the oil. Fry, turning as necessary with a pair of long tongs, until golden brown on all sides, about 4 minutes. Drain the sandwiches on the paper-towel-lined pan and place in the warm oven. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.