How To Cook Semi Boneless Ham In Oven

Delicious and Easy: Cooking Semi Boneless Ham in the Oven

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re going to take you on a culinary journey to learn how to cook a mouthwatering semi boneless ham in the oven. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Cooking a semi boneless ham in the oven is a straightforward process that yields juicy and flavorful results. Let’s dive right in!

What You’ll Need

• 1 semi boneless ham (3-5 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature allows the ham to cook evenly without drying out.

2. Prepare the ham: Place the semi boneless ham on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan. The rack helps elevate the ham and allows the heat to circulate, ensuring all sides cook evenly. Score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. This helps to both enhance the presentation and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

3. Create the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple juice. The mixture will create a sweet and tangy glaze that adds a delightful flavor to the ham.

4. Apply the glaze: Brush the glaze generously all over the ham, making sure to get into the scored crevices. The glaze will caramelize as the ham cooks, creating a delicious crust and sealing in the ham’s natural juices.

5. Cover and bake: Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil, ensuring that the foil doesn’t touch the glaze. The foil helps to trap the moisture and ensures the ham stays succulent while cooking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the ham bake for about 15 minutes per pound.

6. Baste and uncover: Every hour, carefully remove the ham from the oven and baste it with the pan drippings. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the ham moist throughout the cooking process. After about two-thirds of the cooking time has elapsed, remove the aluminum foil to allow the glaze to further caramelize.

7. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should register at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. If needed, continue cooking until the desired temperature is reached.

8. Let it rest: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender ham.

9. Slice and serve: After the resting period, transfer the ham onto a cutting board. Slice it to your desired thickness and arrange it on a serving platter. Your beautiful and delicious semi boneless ham is now ready to be enjoyed!

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking a semi boneless ham in the oven, you can confidently create a delectable centerpiece for your next gathering. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a side of tangy cranberry sauce for a complete and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!