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A bowl of Tirokafteri (Greek Spicy Feta Dip) served with pita bread.

Tirokafteri Recipe (Greek Spicy Feta Dip)

This Tirokafteri recipe is a creamy, salty, slightly spicy Greek feta dip packed with bold Mediterranean flavor. Made with feta packed in brine, roasted red peppers, kefalotiri, mizithra, olive oil, and oregano, this dip has a rich, thick texture that's perfect for scooping with warm pita bread. Serve it as part of a traditional Greek mezze spread, alongside fresh vegetables, or paired with grilled meats for an easy and flavorful appetizer.

Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Keyword Feta Cheese, Greek, Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces feta cheese in brine drained
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers about half a jar, drained well. Another option is to use a spicier jared pepper but then I would use about half the amount.
  • 1/4 cup grated kefalotiri cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated mizithra cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 garlic clove or about 1 teaspoon of minced or crushed garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes more to taste
  • About 1/8 teaspoon cracked black pepper.
  • Optional: 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt if needed for blending

Instructions

  1. Drain the roasted red peppers very well using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps keep the dip thick instead of runny.

  2. Add the feta, roasted red peppers, kefalotiri, mizithra, garlic, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and olive oil to a food processor.  If not using a food processor, mince the roasted pepper and garlic prior to adding to the mixing bowl.  Or, we can do this the truly old fashioned method (Yiayia style) and mashing everything with a fork.
  3. Pulse several times until combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  4. Blend until the mixture becomes creamy but still slightly textured. Avoid over-blending if you want a thicker, rustic-style dip.
  5. If the dip is too thick to blend smoothly, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional oregano, black pepper, or red pepper flakes.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Garnish with oregano, chili flakes, or crumbled feta if desired.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature with warm pita bread.