We have a love-hate relationship with grocery coupons. We love the savings -- not so much the time and organization they require. Our best advice? Gradually work toward becoming coupon royalty.

Most people start clipping with good intentions, get overwhelmed and end up tossing coupons worth hundreds of dollars into the trash. We've been there, done that, too! But if you start out slowly, giving yourself time to develop new habits and a sensible system, success is highly likely.

Here are our best tips:

• Set a realistic goal. At first, ours was simply to save the cost of the Sunday newspaper. After several years of clipping, our current goal is to save 10 percent of our grocery bill. We often do.

• At first, clip only coupons for items you already buy and use. It's easy to end up buying unnecessary items or products that are more expensive than the brand you'd typically buy, thus erasing any savings.

• At first, clip only coupons worth 75 cents or more. Too many coupons spell disaster.

• Always keep the coupon file in your car or purse. It's frustrating to know you have the coupon back at home when you stop to make a purchase.

Today's recipe for Homey Chicken Hash will save you money whether you clip coupons or not. When the budget was running tight, our grandmothers turned to hash a ''stretcher meal'' to make the month's final groceries last until the next paycheck.

Our modern version is loaded with potatoes and spiked with carrots and chicken, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

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