Tirokafteri (Greek Spicy Feta Dip)

Tirokafteri is a Greek spicy feta dip that is jam packed with flavor!  The creamy feta cheese pairs so well with the roasted red peppers and chilli and takes only 5 minutes to make! It will transport you straight to Greece 🙂

If you’re looking for a new appetizer or dip recipe to serve at your next gathering, this Tirokafteri is the one! It's absolutely delicious and the perfect harmony between the saltiness and creaminess of the feta cheese and the spicy kick from the chillies. You can serve it alongside crispy pita chips, warm pita bread, crackers or even veggie sticks for a low carb option. This traditional Greek dip will have all your guests wanting more and its made with 6 ingredients in 5 minutes!

I have a big group of Greek best-friends that I've known for over 18 years! Over the years, I’ve been to many family functions and lucky enough to have tried this Tirokafteri dip right from their mama’s, who I call my Thea’s (aunties in Greek). You’ll always see a bowl of it as part of a mezze platter with tzatziki, Greek salad, kalamata olives and among other side dishes like the popular Greek lemon potatoes.

I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to Greece and the Greek islands throughout the years and one of my favorite parts about it, is eating the yummy Greek food!  Whilst tzatziki is the most commonly known Greek dips, tirokafteri is a very close second and very popular in Greece. It's also sometimes known as Htipiti, depending on the part of Greece you are visiting. 

Besides feta cheese, this spicy Greek feta dip is made with roasted red peppers, giving it a lovely smokiness and popping bright color. You can either roast the peppers yourself, or use good quality jarred roasted peppers for a quick and easy option. All you have to do is throw everything into a small food processor and it's ready within 5 minutes… literally!

Table of Contents

• Why you'll love this recipe
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to make Tirokafteri
• Tips and Tricks
• Storage Instructions
• FAQs
• Pairing
• More Easy Dips
• Recipe
• Comments

Why you'll love this recipe

• Quick and easy: With only 6 ingredients and made in 5 minutes, you can make this delicious spicy cheese dip
• Flavor bomb: The creamy feta, smoky roasted peppers and spicy chili work in harmony and make your taste buds dance!
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer for your next gathering alongside pita chips, raw veggies such as celery / carrot sticks, or you can use it as a sandwich spread
• Traditional: Close your eyes and this spicy feta dip recipe will transport you to Greece!  
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level according to your taste and use either home roasted red bell peppers or ones from a jar

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Feta cheese is the base and star of the show with its salty and tangy flavor. Always opt for good quality feta, I always prefer to buy a block of cheese rather than cubed or crumbled feta
• Roasted red peppers are smoky and sweet and add a lovely taste and popping color to the dip. You can either roast the red bell peppers yourself, or buy a jar of roasted peppers to save on time
• Red chili pepper, I’ve used a fresh red chili, but you can use dried chillies or even crushed red pepper flakes. You can choose your spice level and also remove the seeds which will lower the spice
• Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and smoothness to the dip
• Red wine vinegar provides a touch of acidity to balance the richness, saltiness and spice. You can also use lemon juice or white vinegar
• Garlic works so well and complements the other ingredients perfectly. You only need one clove so it doesn't overpower the dish

How to make Tirokafteri

When thinking about a dip that will have everyone talking, this is it! It's salty, smoky, spicy and so so creamy! Follow my simple steps below.

1. Blend feta cheese, drained roasted red peppers, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic and red chilies (my tip is to start with one chili, and add anoher if needed). Blend until smooth and creamy
2. Taste for seasoning, adjust as you prefer. Serve with some garnish such as feta cheese, parsley, red pepper flakes and drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

1. Use good quality feta. I always prefer to buy a block of feta rather than marinated or crumbled feta
2. Always start with one chili pepper and add more to taste. Some chillies are hotter than you expect and you can always add more spice
3. Don't add any salt, as the feta cheese is salty enough
4. If too spicy or salty, tone it down with a spoon of Greek yogurt or more roasted peppers

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 - 5 days
• I wouldn't recommend freezing the dip as the texture wont be the same once thawed

FAQs

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with Tirokafteri:

More Easy Dips

I love seeing your creations and remakes, so be sure to rate the recipe, comment and share your Tirokafteri (Greek Spicy Feta Dip) photo on Instagram so I can share the love!

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