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A rustic bowl of creamy orange Tirokafteri topped with olive oil, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley, served with warm pita bread.

Authentic Greek Tirokafteri (Spicy Feta Dip)

Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Mezze, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces high-quality Greek feta cheese block in brine, crumbled
  • 2 roasted red bell peppers jarred or fresh roasted, thoroughly drained and patted dry
  • 1-2 hot red chili peppers or 1 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup authentic Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic minced
For Garnish:
  • Extra crumbled feta a pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh chopped parsley, and a generous drizzle of olive oil.

Method
 

  1. Prep the peppers: If using fresh red bell peppers, roast under a broiler until charred, peel the skins, and remove the seeds. If using jarred peppers, drain them thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Blend the flavor base: Place the roasted red peppers, hot chili peppers (or red pepper flakes), minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh lemon juice into a food processor or high-speed blender. Process until completely smooth.
  3. Add the dairy: Crumble the block of Greek feta cheese directly into the blender and add the Greek yogurt.
  4. Pulse to texture: Pulse the mixture in short bursts until fully incorporated. It should be thick, scoopable, and uniform in color, but still retain a subtle, rustic texture from the feta. Do not over-process into a runny liquid.
  5. Chill: Transfer the dip to a clean container, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
  6. Garnish and serve: Before serving, spread the dip into a shallow bowl and create a shallow well using the back of a spoon. Fill the crevices with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and top with extra crumbled feta, a scatter of red pepper flakes, and fresh chopped parsley. Serve alongside warm pita bread.

Notes

Feta Quality: Avoid buying pre-crumbled feta cheese; it contains starches that prevent the dip from reaching its signature creamy consistency.