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Evacuation in the Snow: Fears of Conflict Drive Mass Exodus from Pakistan’s Tirah Valley

Residents from Tirah valley, who fled a remote mountainous region bordering Afghanistan, gather to get themself registered, in Bara, Khyber District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan A wave of displacement is sweeping through northwest Pakistan as thousands of families flee the Tirah Valley after mosque loudspeakers warned residents of possible upcoming military action. The sudden announcements triggered a rapid and chaotic departure, with many families leaving in the middle of harsh winter conditions. Residents describe a tense atmosphere in the valley, where fears of renewed conflict between security forces and militant groups have been simmering for months. Entire communities have packed their belongings onto trucks, donkeys, and makeshift carts, heading toward safer towns such as Bara and Peshawar. Government officials insist that no military operation has been ordered and attribute the movement of people to seasonal migration patterns. Locals strongly dispute this, sayi...

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Healthy Meals: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos





 Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and nutritious option for a meatless taco night. Here's a simple recipe to make these flavorful tacos:


Ingredients:

For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste


For the Black Beans:
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Crema:
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
  • Spread the sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly crispy around the edges. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Black Beans:
  • In a small saucepan, heat the drained and rinsed black beans over medium heat.
  • Season the beans with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of water to prevent them from drying out.
3. Make the Avocado Crema:
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the peeled and pitted avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
  • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave according to the package instructions.
  • To assemble each taco, spread a spoonful of the avocado crema on a tortilla.
  • Add a scoop of roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, shredded lettuce or cabbage, diced tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
  • If desired, top with shredded cheese, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Roll up the tortillas, and your Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are ready to be served.
  • Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
  • Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos! They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and flavors.





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