How Much is Convenience in the Kitchen Worth to You?

The other day an organizer friend and I had an interesting conversation on Twitter.  (Side note: have I mentioned how much I enjoy Twitter?  Let’s connect: @orderuporg)  Autumn mentioned being grossed out by the process of cutting up a whole chicken and stopped just shy of questioning her carnivore status.  I replied by admitting:

Here’s the thing: I recognize that purchasing a whole bird can be cost-efficient and can extend your grocery budget.  I also recognize that dealing with solid bones and snapping tendons makes me ill (if not a little emotional—ahem).  For me and my meal plan goals (and, let’s face it, my mental well-being), it makes sense to buy boneless chicken breasts.  (And avoid chicken wings all together.)  

Of course my decision will not fit every household.  These decisions are something you will have to make on your own.  And you won’t stop at raw, bone-in, whole muscle (the description alone makes me cringe) poultry.  Maybe chopping onions is your personal nightmare.  While you could select recipes without onions, you may simply decide that paying extra (sometimes double or triple) for pre-chopped onions is worth it to avoid shedding tears in the prep area.  

Remember: This is your kitchen and your food budget.  Make it work for you.

For which conveniences are you willing to pay extra?  Is there anything that grosses you out in the kitchen?