🧀 Tirokafteri Recipe: How to Make Authentic Greek Spicy Feta Dip at Home in 4 Easy Steps

If you’re craving a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy dip that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavour, tirokafteri (also known as htipiti or spicy feta dip) is your next obsession. This creamy Greek mezze combines salty feta, chilli, olive oil, and a touch of yoghurt or vinegar to create a dip that’s as versatile as it is addictive. Maybe serve alongside a refreshing cocktail like rhubarb gin for a balanced mezze platter.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make authentic tirokafteri at home, whether you prefer a subtle warmth or a fiery kick. Let’s dive in!

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🇬🇷 What Is Tirokafteri?

Tirokafteri (τυροκαυτερή) is a beloved staple in Greek cuisine. The name comes from “tyri” (cheese) and “kafteri” (spicy), which sums it up perfectly — spicy cheese spread.

Often served as part of a mezze platter, tirokafteri is traditionally made by blending feta cheese with hot peppers, olive oil, and acidic ingredients such as vinegar or lemon juice. Some recipes include Greek yoghurt to soften the tang, while others stick with a dense, rich texture.

It pairs beautifully with pita bread, grilled meats, or even crudités, and it's just as great dolloped onto roasted vegetables.

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🧂 Ingredients for Tirokafteri (Authentic and Customisable)

The beauty of tirokafteri lies in its simplicity. You can tailor the heat level to your taste — and even swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand.

✅ Core ingredients:

• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 red chilli or hot pepper, deseeded and chopped (like Fresno or jalapeño)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Greek yoghurt (optional, for creamier texture)

🔄 Optional add-ins:

• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Roasted red pepper for sweetness and colour
• Smoked paprika or oregano, for extra flavour
• Pinch of black pepper

🧑‍🍳 Pro tip: For a traditional taste, use a high-quality sheep’s milk feta and fruity Greek olive oil.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Tirokafteri at Home

This dip takes less than 10 minutes to make!

1. Roast or sauté the chilli

To mellow the heat and enhance the flavour, roast your chilli in a dry pan until slightly charred. Let it cool before blending.

2. Blend the ingredients

In a food processor or using a fork (for a rustic texture), combine:

• Feta
• Roasted chilli
• Olive oil
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Greek yoghurt (if using)

Blend until smooth or slightly chunky — your choice!

3. Adjust to taste

Taste and add more olive oil, vinegar, or chilli for balance. For a looser dip, splash in more yoghurt or olive oil.

4. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavours develop.

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🔥 Tips for the Perfect Texture and Heat

• Use room temperature feta for easier blending.
• If the dip is too thick, loosen it with olive oil or yoghurt.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicier chillies.
• Prefer chunky tirokafteri? Mash with a fork instead of a blender.
• Balance heat with a drizzle of honey if it’s too spicy.

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🍴 How to Serve Tirokafteri

Tirokafteri is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to enjoy it:

✅ As a dip:

• Warm pita bread
• Crisp veggies (cucumber, carrots, radishes)
• Crackers or toasted sourdough

✅ As a spread:

• On burgers, sandwiches, or gyros
• Inside a grilled cheese toastie for a fiery surprise
• On roasted aubergine or courgette

✅ As a sauce:

• With grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or halloumi
• Dolloped over baked potatoes or chips

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🧊 Storage and Shelf Life

Tirokafteri keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, stored in an airtight container.
Give it a stir before serving, and note that the flavour deepens as it rests!

❌ Freezing is not recommended — the texture of feta can turn grainy when thawed.

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❓FAQs

Can I make tirokafteri without a food processor?

Yes! Just use a fork or potato masher for a chunkier, rustic version. It’s just as delicious.

Is tirokafteri spicy?

It can be! You control the heat level by adjusting the amount and type of chilli you use.

What can I use instead of feta?

There’s no perfect substitute, but you can try a mix of ricotta salata and parmesan for a similar salty result — though it won’t be quite traditional.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan feta alternative and plant-based yoghurt. Add lemon juice and garlic to enhance flavour.

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🧾 Final Thoughts

Tirokafteri is the kind of recipe that proves how simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavours. Whether you’re planning a Greek-inspired dinner party or just fancy something a little different for your sandwich spread, this spicy feta dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

So grab that block of feta, fire up the blender (or your fork), and let your tastebuds take a trip to the Aegean.