Victor Bout's cherished family plov recipe reveals a story of tradition and resilience

Victor and Alla Bout have shared their family's traditional New Year's dish: a hearty plov recipe passed down through generations. The couple revealed the details during a recent radio interview, explaining how the meal has become a centrepiece of their celebrations. Their version serves at least ten people and is carefully prepared in a 12-litre kazan over a wood fire.

Victor Bout, released from a US prison in December 2022 after 15 years, has spent years refining the dish. He was arrested in Thailand in 2008, extradited to the US, and convicted in 2011 before being exchanged for Brittney Griner in a high-profile prisoner swap. Now back with his family, he cooks the plov with lamb or beef, along with carrots, dried apricots, and chickpeas.

The recipe relies on a specific type of rice that stays firm and doesn't clump. Any leftovers are stored in the fridge and reheated the following year—a tradition that kept their 2024 batch lasting until it ran out in 2025. Alla Bout, who co-authored the recipe, joins her husband in preparing the meal, ensuring it remains a staple for their New Year's table.

Before ending the interview, the couple extended warm wishes to listeners for the holiday season.

The Bout family's plov is more than just a meal—it's a dish tied to tradition and resilience. With its rich mix of ingredients and careful preparation, the recipe reflects both their culinary dedication and the significance of shared moments. The couple's story, from prison to the kitchen, adds another layer to the meal's meaning.