Walnut Cake

One of the gastronomic legacies of the Moorish occupation is the Spanish predilection for all kinds of nuts, which they use in a large variety of desserts and cakes. Nina is originally from Rioja, but she now owns a marvellous restaurant in the harbour area of Castellón de la Plana in Valencia. She makes a whole range of sponges and cakes, but this walnut cake is one of my favourites. The nuts give it a delicious taste and a lovely moist texture which keeps well.