Star Wars: The Clone Wars does an effective job of building on franchise lore and expanding on it in new ways.
Giving viewers a look at how spice is processed through the use of slave labor was also a clear way of expanding what we know about Kessel and sending a pretty poignant message as well.
Also, the plan Ahsoka comes up with to outsmart the Pykes is so risky it would make Han Solo proud.
In terms of Kessel, its presence on the show never feels like fan service but more like a natural decision given Rafa’s desire for big jobs from high-paying clients.