Tirokafteri – Greek Spicy Feta Cheese Dip Recipe
Tirokafteri is a traditional Greek spicy feta cheese dip, whipped to creamy perfection with Greek yogurt, garlic, and a hint of heat from green peppers. This appetizing dip features a smooth texture and a flavorful garlic aftertaste, making it perfect as an appetizer or accompaniment to grilled pita bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For The Spicy Whipped Feta:
- 250 grams (8.8 ounces) feta cheese, at room temperature
- 100 grams (3.5 ounces) Greek yogurt (strained or plain)
- 1 hot green pepper (about 40 grams / 1.4 ounce)
- 1 garlic clove
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine or apple cider vinegar
To Serve With:
- Pita bread
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and ensure the feta cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. If you prefer a thicker dip, use strained Greek yogurt.
- Blend the dip: Add the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, hot green pepper, garlic clove, olive oil, and vinegar into a food processor. Pulse the mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides occasionally to ensure even blending.
- Chill and serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle dried oregano and paprika on top. Optionally, refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld and for the dip to thicken.
- Prepare grilled pita (optional): Heat a grill pan over high heat until very hot. Brush pita bread with olive oil, season with oregano, salt, and pepper, then grill for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly charred and warm. Cut into triangles and serve alongside the Tirokafteri.
Notes
- Use strained Greek yogurt for a thicker dip; plain Greek yogurt will result in a more sauce-like consistency.
- You can adjust the heat by using milder or hotter green peppers depending on your taste.
- Refrigerating the dip before serving enhances the flavor, but it can also be served immediately for a fresher taste.
- Grilled pita adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy, spicy dip perfectly.
