Feta Cheese Dip Middle Eastern Style Recipes

FETA CHEESE DIP (TIROKAFTERI)

Steps:

• To prepare this amazing feta cheese dip (tyrokafterh), remove the stem and seeds from the pepper, and chop it finely. (If you have some extra time, roast or slightly fry the pepper before chopping)
• Cut the feta cheese into cubes and place in a bowl, add the chopped pepper and begin mixing in a blender or stand mixer (food processor). Gradually add the vinegar and olive oil, whilst mixing at medium speed.
• Pour in the milk until the feta cheese dip has a silky smooth, creamy consistency. Pour in a little at a time and mix until the cheese dip is smooth.
• If you prefer the dip to be a bit more spicy you can add a couple of teaspoons of cayenne pepper to taste. The milk and cheese require quite a lot of chillies to turn spicy as the milk neutralises the spiciness in the chillies so don't be afraid to add more if you want to.
• Alternatively if you prefer your dip to be creamy and mild don't add any chillies. If you want the sauce to be even creamier try adding a few tablespoons of yoghurt. This will make it even smoother than the milk!
• Pour the feta cheese dip (tyrokafteri) in a medium bowl and garnish with some chopped chillies and a couple of olives.
• Store the feta cheese dip covered in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

CREAMY WHIPPED FETA DIP

Steps:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and use a small spoon to create a swirl on the surface of the dip. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
• MAKE AHEAD: This dip can be made up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in a covered container in the refrigerator. It will stiffen up in the fridge to a spread-like consistency, so be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
• To make the toasted pita wedges: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the pita bread on both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cut into wedges, then arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly toasted.
• To make the toasted sesame seeds: In a small pan over medium heat, cook the sesame seeds, stirring frequently, until golden, a few minutes. Watch carefully as they are quick to burn.

SPICY FETA CHEESE DIP

Steps:

• Combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, paprika, garlic, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and sugar in a food processor; pulse mixture until smooth. Add a couple feta cubes at a time, processing between batches until mixture until thick and smooth.
• Transfer dip to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 1 hour.

FETA CHEESE BALLS

Steps:

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and oil until smooth. Stir in the feta cheese, onions, garlic, dill, oregano and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour., Shape cheese mixture into two balls. Wrap in plastic; refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with bagel chips.

FETA CHEESE DIP - MIDDLE EASTERN STYLE

Steps:

• Crumble and mash feta cheese with a fork with oils and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
• Serve with toasted pita wedges or crackers.
• VARIATIONS:.
• Many herbs and spices can be added to this recipe for a "kick".
• Try adding a teaspoon of dill, oregano, garlic powder, or another herb or spice.
• For spicier spices like cumin or caraway, start off with 1/8 teaspoon and increase according to taste.

MYKONOS FETA CHEESE DIP

Steps:

• Blend the first 3 ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
• Transfer to a serving bowl.
• Mix in remaining ingredients.
• Chill.
• It's better if prepared the night before so that the flavor of the garlic comes out.

BATATA HARRA WITH WHIPPED FETA DIP (MIDDLE EASTERN SPICY POTATOES)

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
• In a baking dish add quartered or cubed potatoes. Toss together with olive oil and salt. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender.
• In the food processor add feta cheese, ricotta, sour cream, tahini, lemon zest and splash of water.
• In a sauce pan, heat the olive oil until hot. In a heat safe measuring cup or bowl, add crushed garlic, cilantro, parsley, crushed red pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cardamom. Gently mix together. Being very careful, pour the hot olive oil over the garlic and herbs. Mix until combined.