Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this Spicy Greek Feta Dip with Roasted Red Peppers. It’s a creamy, tangy, and slightly fiery delight that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious twist on classic feta that you won’t be able to resist.
Steps
- Prepare the ingredients by roasting two small red peppers or draining a 12-ounce jar of fire-roasted peppers. Roughly chop a red chili pepper or jalapeno and a garlic clove, then set up a large food processor with the blade attachment.
- Begin making the dip by crumbling 10 ounces of feta cheese into the food processor. Add the chopped chili pepper, roasted red peppers, and garlic, along with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Blend until slightly broken down, then slowly drizzle in two tablespoons of olive oil while processing until smooth.
- For the bread, slice a French baguette into 1/2-inch pieces on the diagonal. Heat a griddle or grill pan over medium heat, brushing one side of each bread slice with olive oil. Arrange the slices on the griddle, oiled side down, and brush the tops with more olive oil. Grill each side until charred marks form, about 2 to 5 minutes in total.
- To serve, spread the dip onto a plate or bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle on additional crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and kalamata olives. Serve alongside the grilled bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces of Greek feta cheese, crumbled, plus extra for garnish
- 1 red chili pepper or jalapeno, seeded and roughly chopped (keep seeds for extra heat)
- 2 small roasted red bell peppers, torn (or a 12-ounce jar of fire-roasted red peppers, drained)
- 1 small garlic clove, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- Extra virgin olive oil (about 2 tablespoons for blending and additional for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley leaves, for garnish
- 4-5 kalamata olives, pitted and chopped, for garnish
- 1/2 of a French baguette, sliced for serving (optional, can be replaced with lettuce cups or pita chips)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 760kcal | Carbohydrates: 26.8g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 44.8g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10.4g | Cholesterol: 168.4mg | Sodium: 3518mg | Potassium: 435.2mg | Fiber: 3.2g | Sugar: 5.6g | Vitamin A: 1831.2IU | Vitamin C: 74mg | Calcium: 1060.8mg | Iron: 5.2mg
FAQ
- What is Tirokafteri and where does it originate from?
- Tirokafteri, also known as htipiti, is a spicy and creamy feta dip that originates from northern Greece. It is a popular mezze that combines tangy feta cheese with the heat of chili peppers and the sweetness of roasted peppers.
- Can Tirokafteri be prepared in advance?
- Yes, Tirokafteri can be prepared ahead of time. Simply make the dip, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days, and add garnishes just before serving.
- How can I adjust the spice level in Tirokafteri?
- The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of chili pepper used. For a milder dip, remove the seeds from the chili pepper, as they contain most of the heat. Conversely, leave the seeds in for a spicier dip.
- What are some serving suggestions for Tirokafteri?
- Tirokafteri can be served with grilled bread, pita chips, or raw vegetables for dipping. It pairs well with other Mediterranean appetizers such as Zaalouk or Dolmas, providing a balanced and flavorful spread.
- What type of feta cheese should be used for Tirokafteri?
- It is recommended to use high-quality Greek feta cheese that is packed in brine. This type of feta tends to be creamier and more flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of the dip. Avoid pre-crumbled feta as it can be dry and heavily processed.
Tips
- When preparing Tirokafteri, always taste before serving. Feta cheese is typically salty, so you may not need additional salt. However, if the taste seems flat, a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor.
- Opt for a high-quality feta cheese, preferably a whole block preserved in brine. This ensures a creamier texture and richer taste compared to pre-crumbled varieties.
- For those who prefer a milder dip, consider removing the seeds from the chili pepper as they contain most of the heat. This allows you to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it without the garnish. This not only enhances the flavors but also saves you time when entertaining guests. Just add the garnish and grill the bread right before serving.
Equipment
- Large Food Processor: Essential for blending the feta cheese, chili pepper, roasted bell peppers, garlic, and red wine vinegar into a smooth dip.
- Griddle or Grill Pan: Used for toasting the bread slices with olive oil to serve alongside the dip.
