Robust Beet Salad

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beets
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice or cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon wasabi powder (Japanese horseradish)
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced thin
• Salt to taste