Garam Masala Blend
There is no single garam masala recipe. The ingredients differ according to the region as well as each chef's individual preferences. Garam masala from Northern India, including the Punjab region, often has only black pepper for a hot element and mostly focuses on aromatic and sweet spices. This garam masala will be quite mild, and any heat in the dish will come from adding hot peppers.
The farther south you go in India, the hotter the garam masala is likely to be as red chillies are likely to be part of the blend. The spices also change, based on what is more common locally.
Recipes are not only regional but also passed down through families. Learning to mix spices (to be a masalchi) is a matter of pride in India, and each cook strives to make the best garam masala blend.