Shortcut ingredients not ready mixes?

I'm a chef, and don't use any short-cut ingredients, the secret is to have everything prepared. And knowing what you have on-hand. Also TV cooks, have an awful lot of stuff done for them, everything chopped, peeled, etc.I do keep a bag of frozen onions in the freezer, at home, not work. Also some frozen vegies on hand, just in case. Also bottles chillies and capers. Keep your larder full off things that keep well that you may use, always handy