[hallow]

It's actually easy to use charcoal and cast iron. You just have to know how much charcoal to use for the top and bottom. All you need is a Dutch oven with legs and a cover with raised sides. You can make anything from roast chicken, or stews, and even cakes. You just have to get the coals and time right. It's a trial and error thing. Best part is, no electricity needed. If you know how to make your own charcoal, even better.
I got a hot plate too thinking it was a good idea. The hot plate I have just doesn't get hot enough to be very affective for cooking. It takes almost an hour for water to boil. I ended up useing my single burner camp stove. Again.... No power needed to drain your batteries. A 20# LP tank will last forever if you use it just for that.