Food processor
A food processor is a small appliance found in both The Sims and The Sims 2. In both games, it costs §220, and will speed preparation and add Hunger value to food when used.
In The Sims, it's known as the XLR8R Food Processor, and is considered to be the best food preparation surface. It is always used for single and group meals, unless the Sim preparing the meal cannot get to it.
In The Sims 2, it's been upgraded to the XLR8R2. The XLR8R2 speeds preparation of foods that need to be chopped, especially for Sims with lower Cooking skill, keeps the counter it sits on clean, and apparently doesn't need to be cleaned. So, while there are food preparation surfaces that are slightly better, it's still worth having.