In its freshest form, turmeric resembles yellow-hued ginger root, and it’s found in abundance alongside coconuts, ripe tomatoes, curry leaves, mangoes and other farm-fresh produce at Durban’s largest market. This is where the culinary adventure begins for Chef Jon Ashton and Crystal Serenity’s Chef de Cuisine, David George. And it only gets more flavorful from there. The latest episode of “Crystal Cruises Presents: A Culinary Journey, Hosted by Jon Ashton” proceeds to the Spice Emporium, where heaping hills of rich, finely ground spices represent the strong Indian influence in Durban, South Africa.

Guided by Kayla-Ann Osborn, executive chef of Durban’s The Chef’s Table, the two embark on a quest to find the most classic flavors in the eclectic city, then return to Crystal Serenity, where the most important tasting audience awaits: Crystal guests. David and Jon head to the galley to blend ideas and ingredients – mango, curry, lime leaves, onion, peppers, apples, tomatoes, masala, coconut – into a brand new creation that showcases the spice and tang of Durban. The dish was then taste-tested before it was featured as a special in Waterside that evening.

According to World Cruisers Arnold and Susan, the resulting spiced prawns with coconut rice cakes and mango vinaigrette is “one of those dishes you can’t stop eating.”

Mission accomplished.

Keep following the Crystal Insider as Chef Jon and Crystal Cruises’ culinary team explore the flavors and signature cuisines of the world aboard Crystal Serenity.