Cabbage rolls are a nostalgic and comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals. This traditional recipe is a classic, filled with hearty ingredients and flavors that warm the heart.

#### Ingredients:

- 1 large savoy cabbage

- 2 pounds lean ground beef

- 2 medium to large onions, finely chopped

- 2 tablespoons canola or Bertolli olive oil, or butter

- 1 cup white or brown rice

- 2 cups water (for cooking rice)

- 3 large eggs

- 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 2 cans tomato soup

- 2 small bottles (individual serving sizes) tomato juice or vegetable cocktail (like V8)

- 1 can or small carton chicken broth

#### Directions:

1. **Prepare the Cabbage:**

   - Place the savoy cabbage in a bag and freeze for 12 hours or overnight. Remove and let it thaw at room temperature. This will soften the leaves, making them easier to work with without boiling.

2. **Cook the Rice:**

   - In a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish, cook the rice with 2 cups of water. Set aside to cool. This can be done the day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

3. **Sauté the Onions:**

   - In a skillet, heat the oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Set aside to cool.

4. **Prepare the Filling:**

   - In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, eggs, sautéed onions, and cooled rice. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

5. **Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:**

   - Carefully remove the leaves from the thawed cabbage, cutting away the tough part near the core.

   - Place about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the meat mixture at the bottom of each leaf (adjusting based on leaf size). Roll up each leaf, tucking in the sides to enclose the filling.

   - Spray a large casserole dish (or two smaller dishes) with cooking spray. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.

6. **Prepare the Sauce:**

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato soup, tomato juice (or V8), and chicken broth. Mix well.

   - Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.

7. **Bake the Cabbage Rolls:**

   - Cover the dish with foil or a lid. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 2 hours.

   - Once baked, remove the foil to prevent it from sticking to the cabbage rolls. Let cool slightly before serving, or allow to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

8. **Reheat and Serve:**

   - To reheat, thaw if frozen, cover with foil or a lid, and bake at 325°F (165°C) for about an hour. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on sensor reheat.

#### Tips:

- **Freezing the Cabbage:** Freezing and thawing the cabbage softens the leaves, making them pliable and easy to roll without boiling.

- **Make-Ahead:** This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

- **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for added flavor.

### Enjoy!

Savor the comforting flavors and tender textures of these traditional cabbage rolls, bringing a touch of family tradition to your table.