Cooking a semi boneless ham is easier than you might think, and it makes for a fantastic centerpiece at any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a family dinner, this guide will walk you through the process of cooking a semi boneless ham to perfection, with tips on glazing and carving to make your ham shine.
What Is a Semi Boneless Ham?
A semi boneless ham is a ham where the bone has been partially removed, making it easier to carve than a fully bone-in ham but still retaining some of the rich flavor that comes from the bone. It’s usually sold fully cooked, so your main goal is to heat it through and add your favorite glaze or seasoning.
Preparing Your Semi Boneless Ham for Cooking
Before you start cooking, take the ham out of the refrigerator about an hour in advance to let it come to room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly.
What You’ll Need:
– Fully cooked semi boneless ham (usually 5 to 6 pounds)
– Roasting pan or Dutch oven
– Aluminum foil
– Meat thermometer
– Basting brush
– Optional: glaze ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, or cloves
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to warm through without drying out.
2. Score the Ham
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
3. Place the Ham in a Roasting Pan
Put the ham fat side up in a roasting pan. Add about 1/2 inch of water or another liquid like stock or soda to the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.
4. Cover and Bake
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes per pound. For a 5-pound ham, that’s roughly 90 to 110 minutes.
5. Prepare Your Glaze (Optional but Recommended)
A simple and delicious glaze can be made by combining brown sugar, honey, butter, and a pinch of ground cloves. Heat these ingredients gently until smooth. This glaze will add a caramelized, sweet crust to your ham.
6. Glaze and Finish Baking
About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and brush the glaze all over the ham. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) and bake for 15 minutes. Brush with glaze again and bake for another 15 minutes to develop a rich, sticky coating.
7. Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) if it’s fully cooked. This guarantees it’s heated through safely without overcooking.
8. Rest Before Carving
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat moist and tender when sliced.
Tips for Serving and Carving
– Remove large lobes of meat first, then slice into your preferred thickness.
– Save the ham bone for making flavorful soups like split pea and ham soup.
– Serve the ham warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Bonus: Simple Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/3 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Combine in a small saucepan over low heat until melted and smooth. Brush on ham as described above.
Cooking a semi boneless ham is straightforward and rewarding. With a bit of patience and a tasty glaze, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful ham that’s sure to impress your guests.
Enjoy your delicious semi boneless ham!