Tirokafteri (Greek Feta Dip) Recipe

Savor the authentic taste of Greece with this Tirokafteri recipe, a spicy feta cheese dip perfect for appetizers. Easy, quick, and deliciously tangy!

What Is Tirokafteri:

Tirokafteri, often referred to as spicy Greek feta dip, is a traditional Greek spread known for its creamy texture and spicy kick. Made primarily from Greek feta cheese, this dip is a favorite in Northern Greece and has become popular worldwide.

Why This Recipe Works:

1. Spicy and Creamy: Combining the tangy feta cheese with spicy peppers like red chili peppers or even habanero peppers, this recipe delivers a perfect dip that balances heat with a creamy consistency.
2. Versatile and Flavorful: Whether it’s part of a mezze platter with pita chips and crusty bread or served alongside raw veggies like carrot sticks and bell peppers, Tirokafteri adds depth of flavor to any meal.
3. Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: With a handful of ingredients like red bell pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, this spicy cheese dip is not only easy to make but also full of robust flavors.

Supplies Needed

Food Processor 

Measuring Cups

Tongs 

Main Ingredients

• Greek Feta Cheese: The star of the show! Opt for good quality feta cheese for the best results (I always recommend feta that comes in brine over pre-crumbled). About 8 oz of feta cheese should be perfect.
• Roasted Red Bell Peppers: Traditionally you often see this made with red hot peppers (but these are not easy to find at most local supermarkets). Instead, you can easily roast your peppers on the grill, on a gas stovetop, or in the oven on the broiler setting. Additionally, you can buy pre-roasted red peppers that come in a jar in the canned food aisle. 
• Spicy Elements: Red pepper flakes or hot banana peppers bring the heat, while a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a smoky flavor.
• Creamy Base: Greek yogurt or a little bit of creamy mayo can be used to achieve a creamy texture.
• Flavor Enhancers: A bit of olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, smoked paprika, fresh garlic, and fresh parsley add layers of flavor. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste! 

How To Make Homemade Tirokafteri Dip

1. Fire-Roasted Red Peppers: Roast the whole peppers directly into a bed of coals on the grill or over the burner top of a gas stove. Turn as needed until the skin is black and blistered. Additionally, you can do this on a foil-lined pan in the oven. Let the peppers rest and then peel and remove the skin and seeds. Set the roasted pepper aside. 

1. Prepare the Cheese: Start with large chunks of Greek feta cheese (discard the salty water, do not include) and add it to the bowl of a food processor. 
2. Blend for Creaminess: Combine the feta cheese with Greek yogurt and the roasted red peppers and pulse and blend until combined. 
3. Add Flavor and Spice: Incorporate red wine vinegar or lemon juice, a good stir of spicy chili flakes, oregano, salt, pepper, fresh garlic, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for that authentic Greek taste. Continue to mix until you have a nice creamy dip. 

1. Serve It Up: Serve the spicy feta dip recipe at room temperature with warm pita bread, homemade air fryer pita chips, or even as a sandwich spread (I love it with my pan-seared Greek chicken and made into a wrap). Garnish the top with a little sprinkle of feta cheese, fresh parsley, and kalamata olives if desired. 

Serving Suggestions

• Part of a Mezze Platter: Accompany it with Kalamata olives, Greek tzatziki sauce, and a selection of raw veggies for an easy appetizer. 
• With Breads: Warm pita bread or crusty bread are perfect for scooping up this creamy dip.
• Cheese Platter: Add it to a cheese platter with roasted pepper, sesame seeds, and a selection of Greek cheeses.

Make It Your Own

• Add a Twist: For an extra kick, try adding a few drops of hot sauce to give it some extra heat and tangy flavor.
• Roasted Veggies: Incorporate spicy jalapenos or sundried tomatoes for a different twist on this traditional Greek dip.
• Herb Magic: Fresh herbs like dill or mint can add a new dimension to the flavor profile.

Storing Tips

• Airtight Container: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge.
• Freshness: For the best taste, consume within a few days.

More Recipes To Try: 

Easy Grilled Greek Chicken Platter

Garlic Dip Recipe

Low Carb Greek Nachos

Garlic Pita Bread Recipe