Chopping, Dicing, Mixing

For many tasks, a good knife may take a little longer than an electric mill or processor, but you'll spend less time cleaning up in the end, says Ochs.

$250: Cuisinart Elite Collection 12-Cup Food Processor -- Macy's

$80: Cuisinart Smart Stick plus Cordless Rechargeable Hand Blender -- Bed Bath & Beyond

$60: Oster Beehive Blender -- Wal-Mart

$300: KitchenAid 5 Quart Artisan Stand Mixer -- Sur La Table

Running Tally: $34,985