[mavidser]

Just to clarify this further - most good recipe writers would use actual prep times, but they start from the state of listed ingredients. If the ingredients mention '3 whole onions' and the steps list chopping them, the recipe would include chopping time. However if the recipe lists 250g chopped onions, then the recipe time won't factor into that part.

Of course, this is usually true for publications which have an editorial processes (eg - Cook's Illustrated), and not more casual blogs/YT videos

[oivey]

Yes, you’re right. At least partially recipes call for items in state because prep time will vary significantly by skill level. More cynically, with blogger recipes there is also a potential for SEO games.

It isn’t really a shady practice, but for whatever reason over several years I had never known it.