AppetizerSide DishSnack

Tirokafteri (Spicy Feta Dip)

Name: Tirokafteri (Spicy Feta Dip)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: greek
Ingredients: 200 g feta cheese crumbled; 0.5 pcs red bell pepper roasted, peeled, seeds removed; 1 pcs serrano pepper stemmed, deseeded; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp greek yogurt; 0.5 tsp dried oregano; 2 pcs pita bread for serving (optional)

This vibrant Tirokafteri is a fiery Greek feta dip, boasting a creamy texture with a zesty kick from red wine vinegar and a delightful heat from serrano and roasted red peppers. It's an effortlessly elegant appetizer, perfect for sharing, that comes together quickly to deliver authentic Mediterranean flavors.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 40 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Per serving: 291 kcal

Vegetarian

Allergen information: may contain gluten, milk, and sulphites. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

200 gfeta cheese, crumbled
0.5 pcsred bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeds removed
1 pcsserrano pepper, stemmed, deseeded
1 tbspred wine vinegar
2 tbspextra virgin olive oil
2 tbspgreek yogurt
0.5 tspdried oregano

for serving

2 pcspita bread, for serving(optional)

Equipment

Food processor · Spatula · Serving bowl · Measuring spoons · Chef's knife · Cutting board

The method

Step by step

1
Crumble the feta cheese into a food processor for easier blending.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Using a block of feta and crumbling it yourself often results in a creamier dip than pre-crumbled feta, which can be drier.
2
Add the roasted red bell pepper, serrano pepper, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt, and dried oregano to the food processor with the crumbled feta.
Cook’s note: For a milder dip, remove the seeds and membranes from the serrano pepper. For more heat, leave them in.
3
Process the mixture on high speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: If you prefer a dip with a bit more texture, pulse the ingredients briefly instead of processing until completely smooth.
4
Taste the tirokafteri and adjust the seasoning as desired; you might add a touch more red wine vinegar for increased tanginess or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Always taste and adjust seasonings in stages; it's easier to add more than to correct an over-seasoned dish.
5
Transfer the prepared tirokafteri to a serving bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
About 30 min
Cook’s note: Chilling the dip allows the flavors to meld and deepen, intensifying the spicy kick and creating a more harmonious taste.
6
Serve the chilled tirokafteri with warm pita bread, crispy crackers, or an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks.
Cook’s note: Lightly toasting the pita bread in a dry pan or oven enhances its flavor and texture, making it an even better accompaniment.

Per serving

Nutrition

50%Score

Calories: 290.8kcal
Protein: 9.8g
Carbs: 17.4g
Fat: 19.5g
Fibre: 1.1g
Sugar: 4.8g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Cook’s note:

This spicy feta dip is fantastic with a variety of dippers; try it with cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or even crusty bread. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Pair it with a crisp, dry white wine like Assyrtiko or a light lager.

Storage

Store leftover Tirokafteri in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Tirokafteri is best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating is required.