I'm baaa-aaack (again)... this time for real. I've missed all you wonderful Serious Eaters, and I know I've got a two or three months of catching up to do.

I'm starting by trying to pick your brains...

Amanda's post, An Oven-Less Dessert: Steamed Devil's Food Cake, sounded fantastic, and reminded me that I am in serious need of some serious help in this very department. Great timing, Amanda!

I've just returned home after several weeks in Bangkok where Hubby has accepted a long-term work assignment. I went over to help him set up housekeeping in the beautiful new apartment he'll be living in for the next six months or so (until he finds a condo or house).

Upside? It's furnished, has daily maid service, and a great view of the city. Downside? It's very small, and therefore short on one or three things that we take for granted, including a conventional oven/broiler. Not a huge problem, but not exactly ideal, either. Especially when you consider an all-American boy from the South who misses home, family and his favorite foods.

Until he moves or buys a big toaster-oven, I'm trying to come up with traditional oven or broiler recipes adapted to stovetop or microwave. I've set him up with a few ideas, including Salisbury Steaks (to replace meatloaf and gravy), and microwave "baked" apples sprinkled with crumbled shortbread cookies (to replace pie). But I need more!

The only rule:

All dishes must be relatively quick and require only basic kitchen skills. His cooking experience is limited, and he works long hours, so he has very little time to make a meal.

I'm so seriously glad to be back! Thanks in advance for your help and ideas!