Ham hock, borlotti bean and pasta minestra with battuto lardo

1.Bring hock, onion, carrot, celery, fennel, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, chilli and 2.5 litres cold water to the simmer in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, reduce heat to low-medium, half cover with a lid and simmer until meat falls from the bone (1½-2 hours; top with extra water to keep hock covered if necessary).

2.Meanwhile, cut pasta dough into rough 5cm squares, place in a single layer on a lightly floured tray and stand until slightly dried (1 hour).

3.Meanwhile, for battuto lardo, process ingredients in a food processor until a smooth purée forms (1-2 minutes), season to taste and set aside.

4.Remove hock with a slotted spoon and set aside to cool slightly. Add borlotti beans and tomatoes to pan, season to taste and simmer until beans are tender (25-30 minutes). Coarsely shred ham (discard skin, bone and sinew), return to broth with cavolo nero, simmer until tender (8-10 minutes) and season to taste.

5.Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large saucepan of generously salted boiling water until just al dente (1-2 minutes), remove with a slotted spoon and add to soup with oil and battuto lardo to taste. Serve hot scattered with parmesan and oregano, with extra battuto lardo.