I've done the microwave wave-thing a few times with good results; I use 2-3 second "bursts". It will dry the tobacco but I've also noticed as Cosmic mentioned it seems to "activate" the oils, too, and oh what a wonderful aroma when heat treating a Virginia!
I have also used a coffee grinder (dedicated one) to process plug, cake and flakes from time to time. Here, too, short bursts are the key to success. I can't recall which blend it was now but I use to have one that this method worked so very well with; it smoked perfectly every bowl. Have to review my old notes and see if I can find out what it was though! LOL