Putting a wet paper towel in the microwave when heating up tortillas is a common method, but it is not strictly necessary. The wet paper towel serves as a way to add moisture to the tortillas, preventing them from drying out during the reheating process. However, there are alternative methods that can also achieve the same result without using a wet paper towel.
Here are a few different ways you can heat up tortillas in the microwave:
Using a Damp Cloth: Instead of a wet paper towel, you can use a clean, damp cloth to cover the tortillas before microwaving. The damp cloth will add moisture to the tortillas and keep them soft.
Stacking Tortillas: If you have multiple tortillas to heat, you can stack them together, which helps to retain their moisture as they heat up. Just make sure to separate them carefully after heating.
Microwaving on a Plate: Place the tortillas directly on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe dish. The covered plate helps trap the steam and keeps the tortillas moist.
Sprinkle with Water: You can lightly sprinkle water on the tortillas before heating them in the microwave. Be careful not to soak them; a light misting will do.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to heat the tortillas in short increments, checking them after each interval to avoid overcooking or making them too dry.
It's essential to use microwave-safe materials when heating tortillas in the microwave to avoid any potential safety hazards. Also, keep in mind that the optimal heating time may vary depending on the microwave's power and the number of tortillas you are heating, so a little experimentation might be needed to find the perfect timing for your preferences.