There was a topic a while back about cooking and still maintaining light discipline. I have seen a number of small propane powered grills on the market that are effectively hot plates and wanted to offer a low tech alternative.
Try using a tin coffee can and a thick candle. You will need to punch some holes in the coffee can, I have used a nail to drive 6-10 holes in the bottom of the coffee can and several larger holes near the open end. Invert the coffee can over the lit candle and you have a redneck hot plate 🙂
As far as the candle, I have made them and use a 4 oz jelly jar and a 6″ taper wick that you can get at any craft store. The wick can be doubled over in a container this size, twist it together or tie it with some thread before pouring the wax into the jar. I usually get about 40 hours burn time out of one like this. they are cheap to make, and burn bretty brightly. They also work in the Redneck Hot Plate!
I have used this to heat small amounts of water, up to about 2 cups at a time, as well as canned foods. You can generally have them warm enough to eat in 15-20 minutes.
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