5 Chef Secrets to Deep-Frying a Turkey

Bam!

A turkey in 30 minutes. What's not to like about that? Deep-frying - that's the secret. And we got down-and-dirty at WSJ investigating. (I've still got peanut oil on my cowboy boots.) Watch to see June Cleaver's metamorphoses from frustrated housewife to amped up, happy chef.

Plus learn how the experts fry to perfection at Jive Turkey in Brooklyn.

Behind-the-Scenes in Consumer Reports Labs

Following their triggering of the Lexus GX 460 recall, I spent a day inside Consumer Reports labs to get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the rigorous and unusual tests they perform on products they rate.

A sample: treadmills get pounded repeatedly with a spinning metal drum imbedded with rubber green balls the mimic running feet. (The device's nickname: Johnnie Walker.) Stainless-steel grills are pelted with salty spray to test for rust potential. Bike helmets get strapped on a metal head form and dropped onto sharp objects.

The most curious? The Maine Coon cat hair showdown. Watch the above video or read the story to find out more.

Update: we also explored this here on CNBC and on ABC News' "Good Money" show.

Out: Granite Countertops, In: Fiber-Cement Siding

After the recession, there are signs we're starting to downsize here in the U.S. and to scale back our big renovations as we discuss here on CNBC. Big kitchens and master bedroom suites are out, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2009-10 Cost vs. Value report. What's in: insulated doors and fiber-cement siding.
Update: More in-depth report here on ABC News' "Good Money" show.

Testing 4 "Easy" Less Messy Composters

Today we test "composters" in The Wall Street Journal -- looking at units that make the practice faster, less messy and even, mildly entertaining.

You'll find worms, a bearded dragon and Sputnik (or a close relative) making appearances in the video above.

And in the story, you'll find a 6-Step cheat sheet for composting -- and a glimpse at the future of "smart" trash cans. Plus, links and prices of the product we test.

How to Keep Your Older Home Competitive With New Ones -- From Energy Bills to Technology

In today's story and video in The Wall Street Street Journal, I look at the trend of "future-proofing" in homes -- that is, adapting new building science to older homes so they don't become obsolete in a fast-changing market.

The story offers 5 steps experts recommend considering before you tear down sheetrock or exterior siding, replace kitchen cabinets, buy a new hot water heater, build a new media room or paint a wall or refinish a floor. More on this, from a Good Morning America report late last year.