What’s this wrinkled, gnarled thing with an end that’s charred and hard? No, it’s not a dirty joke, it’s a microwaved hot dog. When the microwaves hit food, water molecules jiggle, generating the heat. But heated water molecules seek to escape, leaving edges of veggie burgers gritty and leftovers rubbery. So wrap that dog in a damp paper towel (hit it with a trickle under a faucet, then hold it vertically to make the water spread or drain), then microwave, setting the time for about an extra five seconds. Use a similar trick to freshen dried out foods. Lay a damp (not soppy) paper towel flat on a plate of tortillas and watch them emerge warm and soft.